Choosing Electrical Switches & Sockets
Electrical switches and sockets are highly visible fittings that can have a surprisingly large influence on the finished appearance of an interior.
Rather than treating electrical accessories as purely functional items, choosing a coordinated range allows light switches, sockets, dimmers and electrical plates to complement door furniture, cabinet hardware and lighting throughout the property.
When selecting electrical accessories, consider the required function, number of gangs, switch type, socket type, finish and compatibility with the electrical installation.
Light Switches
Light switches are available in different configurations depending on how the lighting circuit needs to operate.
A standard switch may control a light from one position, while two-way and intermediate switching arrangements allow lighting to be controlled from multiple locations.
This is particularly useful in hallways, staircases, bedrooms and larger rooms where more than one switching point is required.
The correct switch arrangement should be specified by the electrician according to the electrical installation.
LED Dimmer Switches
LED dimmer switches allow compatible lighting to be adjusted rather than simply switched on or off.
They can be particularly useful in kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms where different lighting levels may be preferred at different times.
The Roundtower Hardware collection includes single, double, triple and quad LED dimmer configurations.
Always ensure that the LED lamps, light fittings and dimmer controls are compatible, as not every LED light source is suitable for every dimmer.
Electrical Sockets
Electrical sockets should be selected according to the intended circuit and application.
Where several outlets are required within the same area, coordinated socket and switch plates can help maintain a consistent appearance throughout the room.
The From The Anvil electrical range has been designed to complement the brand's architectural ironmongery and lighting collections, allowing switches and sockets to form part of the wider interior design rather than appearing as unrelated fittings.
Fused Switches & Spurs
Fused switches are commonly used to provide a local switched and fused connection for appropriate fixed electrical appliances and equipment.
The collection includes standard fused switches together with options incorporating a flex outlet or neon indicator.
The correct type and rating should be selected by the electrical contractor according to the appliance and circuit requirements.
Cooker Switches
Cookers and other high-load kitchen appliances can require dedicated electrical controls.
Our collection includes single and double plate cooker switches, allowing these functional fittings to coordinate visually with the surrounding sockets and light switches.
This can be particularly effective in kitchens where electrical accessories, cabinet hardware and pendant lighting are all visible within the same space.
Shaver Sockets
A dual-voltage shaver socket provides a dedicated outlet for compatible electric shavers and similar bathroom appliances.
Bathroom electrical installations are subject to specific safety and location requirements, so the suitability and position of any electrical accessory should always be determined by a suitably qualified electrical contractor.
TV, Telephone & Media Outlets
A coordinated electrical scheme can extend beyond power sockets and lighting controls.
The From The Anvil collection also includes TV sockets, telephone sockets and media connection plates, allowing these fittings to match the finish of surrounding electrical accessories.
This can help avoid having visually inconsistent white plastic accessories positioned alongside premium architectural hardware.
Choosing the Right Finish
The From The Anvil electrical collection is available in Black Nickel, Matt Black and Satin Stainless Steel.
Matt Black can provide a strong contrast against painted walls, natural timber and contemporary interiors and can coordinate particularly well with black door and cabinet hardware.
Black Nickel offers a darker metallic appearance with more reflectivity and depth.
Satin Stainless Steel provides a cleaner and more understated metallic finish that works particularly well in contemporary kitchens, offices and modern interiors.
Consider the electrical fittings alongside your door handles, cupboard knobs, cabinet handles and lighting when choosing the final finish.
Coordinating Switches, Sockets & Lighting
One of the main advantages of the From The Anvil electrical range is the ability to coordinate it with other architectural fittings.
For example, switches and sockets can be selected to complement From The Anvil pendant lights, door furniture, window furniture and cabinet hardware.
The finishes do not necessarily have to match every fitting exactly, but repeating or complementing metal finishes throughout a room can create a much more considered interior.
Electrical Installation & Safety
Electrical switches, sockets and dimmers must be correctly selected and installed for the electrical circuit and intended application.
In Ireland, electrical work must comply with the applicable National Rules for Electrical Installations, and electrical alterations should be carried out by an appropriately qualified Registered Electrical Contractor where required.
Always have the suitability, wiring and installation of electrical accessories confirmed by your electrical contractor before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What electrical accessories are available?
The collection includes light switches, sockets, LED dimmer switches, fused switches, cooker switches, shaver sockets, TV and telephone outlets and blank plates.
Available configurations vary depending on the product.
What finishes are available?
The current From The Anvil electrical range at Roundtower Hardware is available in Black Nickel, Matt Black and Satin Stainless Steel.
This allows the electrical fittings to coordinate with a variety of architectural hardware and interior finishes.
Can I match switches and sockets with my door handles?
Yes. Coordinating electrical accessories with door handles, cabinet hardware and lighting is one of the main advantages of using a design-led electrical range.
The finishes can either match closely or be selected to complement one another.
What is an LED dimmer switch?
An LED dimmer allows the brightness of compatible LED lighting to be adjusted.
The LED lamp or light fitting must be suitable for dimming and compatible with the selected dimmer.
What is an intermediate light switch?
An intermediate switch is used as part of a lighting circuit where the same light needs to be controlled from three or more locations.
They are commonly used in larger hallways, staircases and other spaces with several access points.
What is a fused switch used for?
A fused switch provides local switching together with fuse protection for an appropriate fixed electrical appliance or circuit connection.
The correct product and fuse rating should be selected by the electrical contractor.
Can these switches and sockets be used in bathrooms?
Suitability depends on the type of accessory, its location and the electrical safety requirements for the bathroom.
Bathroom electrical work should always be planned and installed by an appropriately qualified electrical contractor.
Who should install electrical switches and sockets?
Electrical accessories should be installed in accordance with the applicable Irish electrical regulations and National Rules for Electrical Installations.
For work in the home, use a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) where required.
Need Help Choosing Switches & Sockets?
The correct electrical accessories will depend on your circuit requirements, room function, lighting controls and preferred finish.
Roundtower Hardware supplies premium From The Anvil electrical switches and sockets in Ireland, including light switches, dimmers, fused switches, cooker controls and complementary electrical accessories.
Browse our range online or contact our team if you need help coordinating your electrical fittings with From The Anvil lighting and architectural ironmongery.
